Breakfast Spots in San Diego (2025)

Little Italy’s high-energy brunch temple from a local hospitality group, known for soufflé pancakes and playful design. Recognized as a Bib Gourmand by the Michelin Guide and often highlighted by Eater and Thrillist as a must for daytime dining.

A community‑minded favorite since the 1990s serving Chino‑Latino breakfasts, cinnamon bread French toast, and hearty plates after a beach walk. Praised by local food critics and included in numerous city breakfast roundups for its value and neighborhood roots.

A surfer’s morning ritual since 1991 beside Crystal Pier, turning out big breakfast plates, potatoes, and burritos at friendly prices. Frequently cited by Thrillist and the San Diego Reader for its shoreline vibe and enduring local appeal.

Family‑run since 1960, this old‑school La Jolla diner serves breakfast all day and a beloved B.W. Benny. Celebrated by Saveur for its neighborhood role and featured by Eater and local media for timeless diner comfort.

A neighborhood institution for brioche French toast and lemon‑ricotta pancakes on a sunlit patio. Noted by Saveur for defining La Jolla’s breakfast culture and recommended by Frommer’s and The Infatuation for brunch done right.

Housed in a restored 1894 cottage overlooking La Jolla Cove, famous for its Coast Toast—custardy, orange‑scented French toast. Spotlighted by Saveur and The Infatuation as a quintessential ocean‑view breakfast.

Ocean Beach’s Cuban patisserie by chef Vivian Hernandez‑Jackson serves pastelitos, café con leche, and savory bites from morning on. Included by Axios among notable San Diego bakeries and cherished for its deep neighborhood ties.

East Village bakery baking all day so croissants and sourdough are served hot from the oven. Lauded by Axios and Eater for its new, expanded cafe and meticulous craft; a downtown morning destination.

A restored 1940s streetcar turned Mexican breakfast spot in Barrio Logan serving standout chilaquiles and café de olla. Covered by Eater San Diego and praised by the San Diego Reader for celebrating neighborhood history.

Daytime cafe by a Pujol alum serving Mexican breakfasts with subtle Japanese touches—think conchas, chilaquiles, and shiso‑kissed French toast. Featured by Bon Appétit and Eater as a fresh force in La Jolla mornings.

Family‑run Vietnamese bakery‑cafe drawing locals for breakfast croissant sandwiches, pâté chaud, and budget‑friendly bánh mì on house‑baked bread. Highlighted by Eater for its breakfast and takeout sandwiches and beloved by nearby students and workers.

Bird Rock’s artisan bakery by a Tartine alum turns out croissants, English muffins, and seasonal pastries that sell out early. Featured in Saveur’s look at La Jolla’s breakfast culture and admired by national food media.